Paleopathology and functional anatomy evaluation of the ex voto of Veii preserved in Modena: historical context and possible interpretations

The Modena ex-voto collection represents a selection of materials coming from the conspicuous Lanciani Stipe and represent a formidable opportunity to observe the devotional phenomenon, being able to provide the visitor with a varied and complete taxonomy of cases and intentions. We have no concrete evidence to establish the real extent of the Etruscan knowledge of human anatomy. Some indications can be derived from a large number of donaria representing parts of the human body. Considering that Western medicine at the time based its anatomical knowledge on animal observation, the specific cultural level of the Etruscans seems in line with that of contemporary peoples, with whom they were in a relationship of mutual cultural exchange.